Honolulu Historic District a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour

Discover Honolulu’s Historic District with an Affordable Smartphone Audio Tour

The Honolulu Historic District Smartphone Audio Walking Tour offers a flexible way to explore downtown Honolulu’s most iconic sites for just $10.99 per person. With an average booking window of 8 days in advance and a duration of 1 to 2 hours, this self-guided tour is perfect for those who want to learn about Honolulu’s history at their own pace. The tour uses a mobile ticket that provides automatic audio commentary as you walk, making it convenient and easy to follow.

This tour covers a variety of highlights, from the majestic Iolani Palace to the historic Ali’iolani Hale, with commentary that includes legends, tales, and insightful facts about each location. An added advantage is the GPS map that shows your route and location, ensuring you stay on track. While it does not include site entry, it’s an excellent way to absorb the city’s stories without the need for a guided group or fixed schedule.

However, some reviews highlight that the tour does not include access to the sites themselves, such as the Iolani Palace, which requires separate tickets. This makes it a good choice for those interested in outdoor exploration and historical narration but who do not expect to enter the buildings.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Only $10.99 per person for a comprehensive self-guided audio tour.
• Flexible Timing: Enjoy the tour anytime, with no strict schedule—stop and start as you wish.
• Self-Guided Convenience: Download on Wi-Fi before your walk; no data required during the tour.
• Coverage of Major Sites: Includes Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha Statue, Kawaiahao Church, and more.
• GPS Navigation: Automatic commentary plays as you approach each stop, with a live map to guide your route.
• No Site Entry Included: This is an outdoor walking tour; entrance tickets to attractions like the palace are separate.

Starting Point at Ali’iolani Hale

The tour begins right at Ali’iolani Hale at 417 S King St, a prominent building known as the House of the Heavenly Kings. From here, the app guides you through the district, highlighting important architectural and historical details. The starting point’s significance makes it an ideal location to explore Honolulu’s government and judicial history.

Exploring King Kalakaua’s House at Ali’iolani Hale

One of the first stops is the building constructed in 1879 for King Kalakaua, the last reigning king of Hawaii. The tour explains its architectural features and its role in Hawaiian royalty. Visitors get a sense of the regal history tied to this site, setting the tone for the subsequent landmarks.

The Legend of King Kamehameha I’s Statue

A highlight on the route is the King Kamehameha Statue, where commentary shares stories about Hawaii’s most celebrated monarch. The statue is a key symbol of Hawaiian sovereignty, and the narration provides context about Kamehameha’s legacy, making it a meaningful photo stop.

Victorian Architecture at the Kanaina Building

The Kanaina Building, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, is known for its Victorian architecture. The tour points out its design features and explains why it remains an important part of Honolulu’s historical fabric.

Honoring Patience and the City’s Literary Roots

The tour mentions a statue of Patsy—likely referencing a notable local figure—and discusses her accomplishments. Nearby, a historic reading room established in 1879 is highlighted as an early literary haven, originally created to keep sailors out of trouble.

The Oldest Church in Hawaii

The route takes you past Hawaii’s oldest church, offering insights into its construction and its role in the community. The narration emphasizes the enduring significance of religious sites in Honolulu’s history.

King Lunalilo’s Burial Site

The tour explains why King Lunalilo chose to be buried outside the Royal Mausoleum, giving visitors a chance to reflect on Hawaiian monarchs’ personal choices and the history behind the burial sites.

The Impressive City Hall and Its Secrets

The City Hall is detailed as a building with notable features, including the story behind the engraved years 1820 and 1915 on its front. The narration clarifies the building’s timeline and architectural importance.

The Unique Sculpture and Natural Phenomenon

A fascinating stop features an unusual sculpture with a story involving a natural phenomenon. The narration offers insight into its design and the folklore that surrounds it, adding a layer of local color to the experience.

The Frank F. Fasi Building

As of 2006, Honolulu’s municipal offices moved into the Frank F. Fasi Building, distinguished by its distinctive design. The tour explains the reasons behind its architectural choices and how it reflects modern Honolulu.

Seagull Schools’ Stone Statues

On the grounds of the Seagull Schools, several relaxed-looking stone figures are placed, representing early childhood education. The commentary ties these to Honolulu’s innovative approaches to education and community.

Honolulu Police Department’s Unique Feature

A brief mention reveals a special aspect of the Honolulu Police Department, adding local flavor and some pride in city services, though specific details are not provided.

The Bell of Nagasaki: Symbol of Peace

The Bell of Nagasaki offers a message of peace and friendship between the United States and Japan. Its presence emphasizes Honolulu’s multicultural and diplomatic history.

The Queen’s Conference Center

This historic venue is linked to Queen Emma and King Kamehameha IV, reflecting royal visions for Honolulu’s cultural and political future. The narration covers its importance today.

The Hawaii State Capitol

Constructed in 1969, the Hawaii State Capitol is a key governmental building. The tour highlights its design and role in modern governance.

The Regal Queen Emma Manor

Built in 1842 by a clipper ship captain for his family, the Queen Emma Manor is discussed as a site rich with stories of Hawaii’s royal and maritime history.

The Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum is pointed out as the leading place to learn about Hawaiian art and culture, making it a must-visit for those interested in indigenous traditions and history.

The Last Member of the Kamehameha Dynasty

The narration shares the story of the last surviving member of the Kamehameha dynasty, connecting visitors to Hawaii’s royal lineage and its ongoing historical significance.

The Kamehameha and Emma Churches

Both Kamehameha and Emma churches are discussed, emphasizing their architectural beauty and spiritual importance, as well as their ties to historic figures.

The Downtown Shopping Street Mall

The pedestrian-only street mall originated in the 1960s and continues to be a lively spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment, showcasing Honolulu’s modern urban life.

The Hawaii Theatre Center

Opened in 1922, the Hawaii Theatre offers a glimpse into the city’s early 20th-century entertainment scene with vaudeville and silent films. The tour notes its cultural significance.

The Kumu Kahua Theatre

The Kumu Kahua Theatre was donated for producing Hawaiian works that reflect the islands’ diverse cultures, making it a hub for local performing arts.

The Unique Building Materials of the Past

The tour wraps with an interesting story about building materials used historically, contrasting back home choices with local preferences, adding a fun local touch.

The Sum Up: A Practical and Informative Way to See Downtown Honolulu

This self-guided audio tour provides a practical way to explore the Honolulu Historic District at your pace. Its affordable price, combined with automatic commentary and GPS guidance, makes it suitable for independent travelers eager to learn about Honolulu’s landmarks without the constraints of a group.

While it does not include site entry tickets, it offers a broad overview of the city’s most significant sites, stories, and legends. It is especially well suited for those who prefer outdoor exploration and flexibility over guided tours with fixed schedules.

However, potential visitors should note that if access to attractions like Iolani Palace is desired, they must purchase tickets separately. The tour’s main strength lies in its informative narration and ease of use, offering a low-cost, educational experience for anyone curious about Honolulu’s past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include entry to Iolani Palace or other sites?
No, the tour is an outdoor walking experience with no site entry included. Entrance tickets need to be purchased separately.

Can I do this tour at any time?
Yes, the tour is available to enjoy anytime, with no time constraints, making it flexible for your schedule.

What equipment do I need?
A smartphone or tablet is required to download the tour and listen to the commentary. Headphones are optional but recommended.

How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at each stop.

Is this tour suitable for all ages and abilities?
Yes, it is designed for most travelers, with no specific physical requirements mentioned. It is a walking tour, so comfortable footwear is advised.

What should I do before starting the tour?
Download the tour on Wi-Fi before heading out to avoid using data during the walk.